By Political Reporter- In what promises to be a pivotal contest, the country’s leading opposition figure, Nelson Chamisa, is set to square off against former army general and Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in the 2028 elections.

With President Emmerson Mnangagwa bowing out of the race, this face-off could see Chamisa emerge as the country’s new leader—if Chiwenga refrains from leveraging military support to sway the outcome.

After a period of political recalibration, Chamisa has returned, signalling his readiness to lead Zimbabwe toward democratic transformation.

At a recent family gathering in Masvingo, Chamisa vowed to fulfill his vision of a just and prosperous nation, suggesting a robust comeback that has energized his supporters.

Chiwenga, meanwhile, solidified his grip on Zanu PF at the recent party congress in Bulawayo, emerging as the party’s undisputed frontrunner.

However, if Chiwenga abstains from deploying the military apparatus that has historically secured Zanu PF’s dominance, he risks a sweeping defeat at Chamisa’s hands.

With over two decades of grassroots political experience, Chamisa has cultivated a broad base of support across the nation.

The resilience of Chamisa, who briefly stepped aside from politics in January due to the contentious takeover of his Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) by alleged Zanu PF agents led by Sengezo Tshabangu, remains undeterred.

During his Masvingo address, Chamisa spoke passionately about his dedication to Zimbabwe’s democratic ideals, echoing the dreams of his late mentor, Morgan Tsvangirai.

“God wants this country to be built with clean hands, not those who have spilled blood—people who kill, who murder citizens, and who steal,” he declared. “The late Morgan Tsvangirai passed away without seeing his dreams realized, but we are here to fulfill them. The time has come, and we are ready to make it happen. I am planning ahead for this reality.”

Chamisa’s defiant return comes amid Zimbabwe’s simmering appetite for political reform.

Known for his charisma, oratory prowess, and youth-driven approach, Chamisa has become a powerful emblem of the people’s aspirations.

Despite state interference, threats, and systematic dismantling attempts, he remains undaunted, reaffirming his commitment to a transparent and democratic Zimbabwe.

As Zimbabwe enters this crucial political juncture, Chiwenga’s consolidation of power signals a deepening alignment with the military establishment.

With the former army commander’s victory over Mnangagwa in the recent Zanu PF power struggle, Zimbabwe’s political landscape seems poised for a return to overt military influence.

Mnangagwa, who once relied on military backing for his rise, has been relegated by the same power structure he leaned on, while Chiwenga has emerged as the undisputed candidate for Zanu PF.

The military’s impact on Zimbabwean politics runs deep, from clandestine ballot control to the military’s growing role in the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).

Under both the Mugabe and Mnangagwa regimes, the ZEC has been strategically populated by military and intelligence agents, controlling electoral logistics and favoring Zanu PF’s dominance.

Mnangagwa’s 2018 victory, reliant on these systems, lacked the military’s backing in his 2023 campaign, marking his gradual political isolation.

Following multiple attempts on Chiwenga’s life, including the 2018 White City Stadium grenade attack and a recent helicopter crash, Mnangagwa conceded to his rival.

Sources indicate that Chiwenga’s faction decisively dismantled Mnangagwa’s support within Zanu PF, solidifying Chiwenga’s position for 2028.

With this shift, Zimbabwe’s trajectory appears to be heading toward a military state reality, with elections potentially reduced to mere formalities unless a strong opposition counters.

The stakes could not be higher as Chamisa rises to meet Chiwenga on the 2028 ballot.

Chiwenga’s likely reliance on the military to secure his power would reinforce Zimbabwe’s authoritarian governance, while Chamisa’s vision offers a stark alternative of democracy and transparency.